And How To Change 'Em
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Pursuing your purpose is the key to an authentic, fulfilling life. But where do you start? Being constantly attached to cell phones and laptops, and spending your days pursuing someone else's vision can detach you from your deepest desires.
The quiet reflection necessary to uncover your inner truths can seem unnatural or uncomfortable. But, in order to find your path, you have to spend time alone.
With that in mind, here's a step-by-step guide to conquering the obstacles between you and your true purpose.
1. You haven't asked the hard questions.
Self-exploration can take many forms, but as a starting point, sit with yourself — alone — and ask these questions. Try to take the logical, rational mind out of this exercise and focus on your heart’s desires. Be sure to write down your musings. Writing out your thoughts reinforces them in your subconscious and conscious mind.
If possible, complete this exercise outside in nature. The organic environment can help to put things into perspective, as well as inspire and relax us.
- What ignites you? Some examples could be: music, acts of kindness, dance, art, philosophical debates, organizing, cleaning, sports, color, or writing.
- How might you redesign your life if there were no limits? What would you want to do in life? Be in life? See in life?
- What small steps can you take right now that will bring you closer to your ideal life?
2. You haven't embraced your unique gifts and strengths.
Celebrate your individuality and the gifts you have to offer. There's no one else who can do what you can do, or be what you can be.
What talents do you bring into this world? What gifts set you apart from others? How might you use them for a greater good?
3. You aren't setting a daily intention.
Give yourself a goal for the end of each day, or come up with a mantra to help you move closer to your purpose. Some examples could be:
- Today, I will achieve balance.
- Today, I will be grateful.
- I am empowered.
- I feel joy in the present moment.
4. You're getting in your own way.
Although it's counterintuitive, we often self-sabotage, preventing ourselves from achieving our true potential.
Write down your potential minefields and reflect on what experiences or events in your life may have contributed to forming these thoughts or behaviors in the first place. Some examples of negative minefields:
- Negative self-talk/doubt
- Excuse-making
- Lack of confidence
5. You aren't listening to that still, small voice.
When you hear the desires of your soul, begin to design your ideal life around them. Ignoring them will lead to frustration and bitterness.
Debbie Ford said, "Your life is sacred. There is and always has been a path for your soul, and if you follow that path, it will lead you to the inner utopia that your soul longs to experience in this lifetime. You are here to manifest the glory of the divine in a way that will serve your own soul and serve the evolution of other souls as well."
